Debate Sparks on Social Media Ahead of the Prestigious Ghana Music Awards
The race for the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) Artiste of the Year has intensified, following a heated online exchange between rising rapper King Paluta and outspoken media personality DJ Slim.
The controversy began when DJ Slim took to X (formerly Twitter) on May 8, 2025, boldly stating that only Stonebwoy or King Promise should be considered for the top honor this year.
DJ Slim: “Only Stonebwoy or King Promise Deserve It”
DJ Slim’s post drew a line in the sand, arguing that active industry participation and public campaigning should influence the TGMA results.
“I will be disappointed in Ghana Music Awards if they give the artist of the year award to anybody apart from Stonebwoy or King Promise. You can’t show less interest in the scheme and expect to be awarded. This nonsense must stop,” he wrote.
The media personality cited the consistent public engagement and musical output of Stonebwoy and King Promise as grounds for their edge in the category.
King Paluta Fires Back: “Loose Talk!”
Rapper King Paluta, who has enjoyed a massive breakout year with hits like Aseda and Yahitte, didn’t take kindly to Slim’s remarks. He responded directly, challenging the idea that awards should be based on media buzz rather than musical merit.
“Fada! This be loose talk!! So they should award based on PR and not metrics? If someone doesn’t campaign and he deserves it, they shouldn’t give it to him?? Dem for delete you all from the industry,” Paluta fired back.
His response ignited a wave of support from fans who believe that authentic talent and impact should trump promotional efforts.
DJ Slim Doubles Down: “This Is the Big Stage”
Not backing down, DJ Slim clapped back with a personal jab, calling out King Paluta for failing to actively market himself on the “big stage.”
“I go delete your dreadlocks. Have you seen the energy being exerted in the race by King Promise and Stonebwoy? You are coming against these big acts and you want to relax. Asuo, sit up. Your days underground are over. Go hard or go home.”
His comments echo a growing sentiment in the industry that visibility and fan engagement are now as crucial as musical excellence.
The 2025 TGMA Artist of the Year Battle Heats Up
The 2025 TGMA, set to take place on Saturday, May 10, at the Grand Arena, Accra International Conference Centre, has fans eagerly watching as this year’s lineup features some of Ghana’s biggest names:
- Stonebwoy—2024’s reigning Artist of the Year (source)
- King Promise—fan-favorite with major hits and a strong campaign
- King Paluta—the underdog with a growing fanbase and street credibility
- Black Sherif—Internationally acclaimed with unique artistry
- Joe Mettle, Kweku Smoke, and Team Eternity Ghana—each with their compelling case
Merit vs Media: The Bigger Conversation
This clash has sparked broader questions within Ghana’s music community:
- Should public relations and media strategy play a role in awards decisions?
- Or should awards focus purely on impact, streams, artistry, and cultural relevance?
As fans take sides, this year’s TGMA is shaping up to be one of the most debated and competitive editions yet.
Whether King Paluta’s raw talent will outshine Stonebwoy and King Promise’s industry muscle remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the Ghana Music Awards aren’t just about music anymore—they’re about momentum, messaging, and presence.